At Collins Machine Works we believe that the youth are an important part of our world and have the potential to create a brighter future and a better tomorrow. Because of this, shaping our children to be future leaders is just one of the ways we can help our community. That’s why nine years ago, CMW supported Sheriff Jim O’Sullivan’s effort to found the STAR leadership program, designed to give local children the tools they need to become leaders.

The annual Children Today Leaders Tomorrow STAR Leadership camp kicked off in early May, and brought together 64 kids, eight junior mentors, and 24 team members. Additional support staff help children develop leadership and other skills through teambuilding activities such as horseback riding, rock climbing, archery, fishing, and kickball. The camp is still run by Sheriff Jim O’Sullivan and volunteer deputies, and sponsored by Children Today Leaders Tomorrow. Boys and girls from all over the city of Chesapeake, ranging in age from 10 to 14, are eligible to attend the free summer camp. While there, they take part in structured activities and receive positive reinforcement as they learn STAR’s three core values: professionalism, leadership, and community involvement. Children are paired with mentors who embody these values, as well as STAR’s goal to encourage kids to “stand tall” and “always reach.” By bringing together kids from all walks of life and surrounding them with a support system of people who genuinely care about their personal growth and development, the camp has helped create and inspire future leaders for 9 years, helping the youth who will shape the future.

These goals align with those that CMW strives to exemplify, and we are thankful for the opportunity to give back to the community. We take pride in helping create a better future for our children by giving them the knowledge and skills they need to make positive change. We seek to not only meet expectations, but to also challenge and exceed these expectations in our professional endeavors and contribution to local organizations. In doing so, we hope to create a better future and brighter tomorrow for our clients and constituents.